How to clean a septic system

The curious would ask where the wastewater from your home goes. Is it treated? Does it go untouched? Is the container stable? Do you have to open the container again when you know that wastewater is in there? The wastewater from your home goes straight into the septic system. It is where the solid wastes are broken down and the clear effluent is then dispersed into the drain field. It is in a stable tank that needs to be inspected from time to time so that proper care and maintenance could be given. Another question a person might ask is how to clean a septic system.

The septic system is your household’s personal sewage treatment plant. From your home, wastewater reaches the septic tank through a pipe. In the tank, anaerobic bacteria thrive and breakdown the solid waste products that drop in. This event results to sludge accumulation. This sludge must be pumped out when it reaches a certain level. The resulting clear effluent is then absorbed by the leach field which rids it of pathogens and pollutants before it is finally returned to the surrounding environment. You can accomplish this by hiring a septic professional.

But aren’t you curious about how to clean a septic system and how is it actually done? Here are some of the things that septic professionals do to clean your septic system:

The location of the septic tank should be located properly through the plans made before. If the manhole is concealed, it has to be dug up.

The manhole is removed from the septic tank. This is done by sliding a metal bar under the handles and then the metal bar is pried with your crow bar to detach the lid.

Proper protection is worn such as goggles and gloves.

The filter is exposed by unscrewing the lid of the filter unit.

A hose is attached to the faucet and then with the faucet turned on, the filter is cleaned until all traces of waste are removed. This should be done away from person performing the task.

The filter is replaced and the lid is screwed back on.

The specialized truck is positioned beside the septic tank.

A hose is inserted into the tank and the contents are pumped into the truck that is enclosed.

The septic tank is hosed down to remove clinging sludge.

Any remaining water will be pumped out.

Bacteria-friendly additive is then added into the system to enhance the bacterial performance. Products like this can be availed through sachets and can be administered through the tank or the toilet. The bacterial population will then be maintained and balanced.

The lid is then placed back and a report is given to authorities that the cleaning of your septic system was accomplished.

Proper disposal will be done according to the standards and only a septic expert with a disposal certification should be allowed to do this.

Of course, after cleaning the septic system, you should reset its maintenance practice. This would mean that you should see to it that the system will not be disrupted anymore. Septic experts share tips on how you could make sure that your septic system will reach its maximum life span and be of service for a very long time. You should find means to divert the rain runoff away from the drain field; not overload the drain field and the tank; not allow trees to be planted near the system; not dispose of garbage into your toilets; have a dry well built beside your septic system; use bacteria-friendly household cleaners and detergents; not pour oils and grease into your drains; not use very strong chemicals; not allow any form of construction or vehicle over your system; and adhere to the maintenance and treatment schedules recommended by your septic expert.

It is a huge responsibility to have a home and a working septic system. It is in how you care for your septic system and how to clean a septic system that you are able to make sure that your household is safe and healthy.

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About The Author

I am an all around outdoor enthusiast with a passion for getting things done on my own, my way and at as little cost as possible. I share what I have learned and have accumulated 18 years of plumbing and wastewater experience to pass on. I hope my information makes life a little easier for you.Need something I haven't covered here? Just drop me an email and I'll usually respond within a few hours.Until then, keep the faith!Dave